Name: Strawberry Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups All-purpose flour; 1 cup Sugar; 0.5 tsp Baking soda; 0.5 tsp Salt; 0.5 tsp Cinnamon; 2 units Eggs; 10 Tbsp Vegetable or canola oil ((1/2 cup plus 2 Tbsp)); 1 pint Fresh strawberries ((hulled and chopped))

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There’s something so comforting about the scent of fresh-baked bread wafting through the house, and when it’s a loaf of Strawberry Bread, it’s pure magic. I remember the first time I baked this delightful treat; it was a sunny spring afternoon, and the strawberries were just coming into season. I gathered a basket of the ripest, juiciest strawberries from the local market, ready to create a special recipe that I had been dreaming about. The moment I mixed those vibrant berries into the batter, I knew I was on to something incredible. Each slice of this loaf brings a taste of summer, perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack. It’s the kind of recipe that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart, making it a go-to in my kitchen.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
60 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
220 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Whole30, Vegan, Gluten-Free

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Loaf Pan

What Makes This Strawberry Bread Special

Freshness at Its Best

One of the primary reasons I adore Strawberry Bread is its freshness. Using ripe, juicy strawberries elevates this bread to a whole new level, bringing a natural sweetness and a burst of flavor with every bite. When strawberries are in season, they’re at their sweetest, making this recipe shine.

Perfectly Moist Texture

This bread is incredibly moist, thanks to the combination of eggs and oil. The oil provides richness, while the strawberries add moisture without the need for excessive sugar. Each slice is soft and tender, making it hard to resist going back for another piece.

Easy to Make

Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you don’t need to be a baking expert to whip up this delightful loaf. It’s the perfect way to get started with baking if you’re looking to impress friends and family.

Versatile and Customizable

Another fantastic aspect of Strawberry Bread is its versatility. While the classic recipe is delicious as is, you can easily tweak it. Consider adding a handful of nuts for crunch or incorporating a hint of lemon zest for brightness. The options are endless, allowing you to make it your own.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This bread isn’t just for breakfast. It’s a delightful addition to brunches, picnics, or even as a lovely homemade gift. I love wrapping a loaf in parchment paper and tying it with twine for a sweet touch. It’s the perfect treat to share with friends and family.

What You Need for Strawberry Bread

The ingredients for this Strawberry Bread are simple yet effective. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect loaf. Fresh strawberries are the star of the show, while pantry staples like flour and sugar come together to form the base. Together, they create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist.

All-purpose flour: The backbone of this recipe, providing structure and texture. It allows the bread to rise beautifully while keeping it soft.
Sugar: Adds sweetness, balancing out the tartness of the strawberries. It helps caramelize the crust, giving it a lovely golden color.
Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the bread rise, ensuring a light and airy texture.
Salt: Enhances the flavors, making every bite more delicious.
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth, complementing the strawberries beautifully.
Eggs: Provide richness and moisture, binding everything together.
Vegetable or canola oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
Fresh strawberries: The star ingredient! Their natural sweetness and juicy texture are what make this bread special.

The Method for Strawberry Bread

Making Strawberry Bread is a rewarding process, and it all starts with a few simple steps. The best part is that you don’t need any fancy equipment—just a mixing bowl and a loaf pan. Let’s dive into the process!

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. It’s essential to have your oven ready before you mix your ingredients, ensuring even baking.
Lightly spray a 9x5x3-inch loaf pan with cooking spray and set it aside. This will prevent the bread from sticking, so you end up with a beautifully shaped loaf.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir everything together until well combined. This dry mixture is the foundation for your bread.
Next, add eggs and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients. Mix everything well until you have a smooth batter. You want to ensure there are no lumps, so take your time with this step.
Now, stir in the chopped strawberries. Be gentle when mixing; you want to distribute them throughout the batter without crushing them.
Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Make sure it’s evenly distributed, smoothing the top with a spatula if necessary.
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean!
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time helps develop the flavors further.
Slice and enjoy your fresh Strawberry Bread warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own or with a smear of butter.

Things Worth Knowing

Ripeness of Strawberries: Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Overripe or underripe strawberries can significantly affect the taste.
Mixing Technique: When combining wet and dry ingredients, avoid overmixing to ensure a tender loaf.
Cooling Time: Allowing the bread to cool completely ensures a better texture and flavor development.
Storage Tips: Properly store your bread in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

Recipe Notes about Strawberry Bread

While making Strawberry Bread is relatively straightforward, here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Storage: For best results, store your leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
Freezing: You can freeze baked bread for later. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer bag for up to three months.
Serving Suggestions: This bread pairs wonderfully with cream cheese spread or a drizzle of honey for a delightful breakfast treat.
Customization: Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
Check for Doneness: Always check the bread with a toothpick before removing it from the oven to avoid undercooking.

What to Serve Alongside Strawberry Bread

When it comes to enjoying your freshly baked Strawberry Bread, there are numerous delightful pairings. Consider these options:

Fresh Fruit: Serve slices alongside a medley of fresh fruits such as blueberries or sliced bananas for a refreshing breakfast.
Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt can add a creamy element that complements the sweetness of the bread.
Tea or Coffee: Pairing your bread with a warm cup of tea or coffee makes for an inviting afternoon snack.
Cheese: Consider serving it with a mild cheese, such as cream cheese or ricotta, for a savory contrast.
Brunch Gatherings: This bread is perfect for brunch occasions, making it a hit with your guests.
Picnics: Slice it up and pack it for a delicious picnic treat. It’s portable and easy to share.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the batter. Frozen strawberries can work quite well in this recipe, though fresh strawberries will always yield the best flavor.

To keep your Strawberry Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag!

Strawberry Bread pairs beautifully with cream cheese, yogurt, or a simple spread of butter. It’s also delightful along with fresh fruit or a cup of coffee. This versatility makes it a great choice for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack any time of day!

Absolutely! You can customize Strawberry Bread by adding nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch. You could also mix in chocolate chips or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a flavor boost. The recipe is quite flexible, so feel free to experiment!

The best way to check if your Strawberry Bread is done is by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If you see wet batter, bake it for an additional 5 to 10 minutes and test again.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Bread recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fresh strawberries in a soft, moist loaf. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try making this wonderful bread; it could become a cherished favorite in your home. Enjoy the sweet and fruity goodness that comes with each slice!